Yb(OTf)-Catalyzed and Di--butyl Dicarbonate-Mediated Decarboxylative Etherification and Esterification Reactions.

Protecting group chemistry has invariably captured the fascination of chemists because of its extensive viability in chemical synthesis. The present report describes our pioneer work of applying ytterbium triflate as a catalyst, for the reaction of alcohols with di--butyl dicarbonate (BocO) leading to the formation of -butyl ethers. There exists no recorded evidence for the use of Yb(OTf) as a catalyst for the protection of alcohols to -butyl ethers, despite its excellent utility in various reactions. Yb(OTf) has been used predominantly in the catalytic deprotection studies such as selective deprotection of -butyl esters to carboxylic acids as well as prenyl ethers to alcohols. This study involved the critical evaluation of solvent, time, and temperature that finally led to an efficient protocol for the formation of -butyl ethers. Yb(OTf) catalyzed the formation of -butyl ethers, notably reducing the reaction time, which is exemplified by the achievement of up to 92% conversion of alcohols to -butyl ethers within an hour. Additionally, the report demonstrates the utility of this synthetic protocol for the protection of carboxylic acids.